Bridging Generations: Team Building for Gen Z, Millennials and Boomers

Different motivations across generations

Each generation approaches work and collaboration with its own perspective. Research from Deloitte (2023) shows that younger employees value purpose, flexibility, and inclusivity, while Baby Boomers often emphasise stability and recognition of expertise. Millennials, positioned between the two, typically seek a balance between professional growth and personal fulfilment.

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These different motivations across age groups mean that a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Tailoring team building activities to address both individual drivers and collective goals is essential.

Activities that work for everyone

Despite generational differences, there are activities that tend to bring all employees together. Collaborative problem-solving tasks, volunteering initiatives, and creative team-building activities often transcend age barriers.

Harvard Business Review (2021) highlights that cross-generational mentoring also creates mutual respect while sharing knowledge and skills.

By focusing on activities that work for everyone, organisations can build trust, break down stereotypes, and foster authentic connections.

Avoiding the cringe factor with Gen Z

For younger generations, especially Gen Z, authenticity is crucial. Corporate activities that feel forced or outdated can easily fall into what many describe as the “cringe factor”. This is particularly important to avoid if the goal is genuine engagement.

Interactive formats, digital collaboration tools, and projects tied to real social impact resonate far more with this group. Employers need to ensure that activities feel relevant, modern, and aligned with their values.

Building bridges between generations

When done right, team building does not highlight differences but creates shared experiences. Organisations should design programmes that celebrate diversity of thought while reinforcing a common purpose. Creating opportunities for different generations to collaborate on meaningful tasks helps build resilient, innovative, and future-ready teams.

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